Java: Prajnaparamita Bodhisattva

INDONESIA, East Java, Malang

The sculpture was unearthed from Singosari in Malang, East Java, and is believed to be a likeness of Queen Ken Dedes from the Singosari Kingdom (circa 1222–1292). This connection suggests the existence of an imperial cult involving worship at the period.
The tall crown worn by the Bodhisattva has a tower-like headdress at the center. A large urna sits between the brows while the eyes are downcast as if in deep meditation. The upper body is regally ornamented in jewelry. The figure sits in full lotus position with the right hand forming what is likely the vitarka (teaching) mudra. A long lotus stem winds itself around the left arm and blossoms at shoulder height. The sutra scroll which is the attribute of this Bodhisattva, symbolizing supreme wisdom, is supported on the lotus.
There is a plain oval-shaped nimbus behind the figure’s head, while the back of the throne is separated into two sections with foliage along the edges.